Miami Cruises

What to do in Miami:

The Port of Miami is very close to downtown Miami, but the most popular pre- and postcruise destination in Miami is South Beach (about a 10-min. ride from the port), because of its proximity to the port and the fact that it's a relatively small (and walkable) area full of nightlife, beaches, hotels, and restaurants (see the South Beach sections). If you're just looking for a quick overnight stay, your best bet may be one of the downtown-area hotels, which are closest to the port. The only two in the immediate area that I'd recommend, however, are The Hotel Inter-Continental Miami, which is literally up the block from the port, or the Biscayne Bay Marriott, located about 5 minutes away. For food and shopping, Bayside Marketplace is within walking distance of the port. For other restaurants in this area, check the Downtown dining section. Cabs are abundant at the port. A ride to the airport should cost about $25 and a ride to South Beach should be about $10.

All the shorter cruises (3 and 4 days) are well equipped for gambling. Their casinos open as soon as the ship clears U.S. waters -- typically 45 minutes after leaving port. Usually, four full-size meals are served daily, with portions so huge they're impossible to finish. Games, movies, and other onboard activities ensure you're always busy. Passengers can board up to 2 hours before departure for meals, games, and cocktails.

There are dozens of cruises from which to choose -- from 1-day excursions to a trip around the world. You can get a full list of options from the Metro-Dade Seaport Department , 1015 N. America Way, Miami, FL 33132 (tel. 305/371-7678 ). It's open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm.

The cruise lines and ships listed below offer 3-, 4-, and 7-night cruises to the Caribbean, Key West, and other longer itineraries that often change. If you want more information, contact the individual line, or, for Bahamas cruises, call the Bahamas Tourist Office , 1200 S. Pine Island, Suite 750, Plantation, FL 33234 (tel. 954/236-9292; www.bahamas.com). All passengers must travel with a passport or proof of citizenship for reentry into the United States.

Port of Miami info:

Parking:

  • Parking is available at all terminals
  • Parking for cruise passengers is $12 per day; short-term parking is also available at a rate of $5.00.
  • Parking for oversized vehicles is approximately $24 per day (depending on size).
  • Credit card payments are only accepted at Parking Garage # 5 and Parking Garage # 6.
  • **Only Visa and Master Card are accepted.

Taxi Service:

  • TaxiCabs are available at all cruise terminals. The fare between the Miami International Airport and the Port of Miami is approximately $20.00

Directions From I-95: 
Take I-95 north or south to I-395. Follow the directional signs to the Biscayne Boulevard exit. When you get to Biscayne Blvd., make a right. Go to 5th Street which converts to Port Blvd. (landmark: American Airlines Basketball Arena) make a left and go over the Port bridge. Follow directional signs to designated terminal.

Source:

Frommer's South Florida including Miami and Keys, 4th Edition